The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 5 letter word EARLY
I've seen this crossword clue in The Times
E
A
R
L
Y
More clues leading to the result EARLY
- Almost decapitated sooner than expected
- In good time, like a nobleman quite possibly?
- A king arriving in fenland city ahead of time
- Ahead of time, almost not having started
- Lord with yen to be in good time
- With time to spare, a little like a nobleman?
- Almost failing to start ahead of schedule
- Not quite heading off in good time
- Leader leaves at great cost, ahead of schedule
- Nobleman years ahead of his time
Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "in good time" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case in good time = early.The cryptic/wordplay part
In cryptic crossword there's often an wordplay/cryptic part as well.This part involves a more complex hint, such as an anagram, homophone, hidden word, etc.
Sadly, We don't have an explanation for this specific crossword clue yet.
What does EARLY mean?
EARLY noun- A shift (scheduled work period) that takes place early in the day.
- At a time in advance of the usual or expected event.
- Arriving a time before expected; sooner than on time.
- Near the start or beginning.
- Having begun to occur; in its early stages.
- Of a star or class of stars, hotter than the sun.
- At a time before expected; sooner than usual.
- Soon; in good time; seasonably.